How do allergies arise? We have the answer!
How do allergies arise?
Allergies are much more than just unpleasant reactions of the body to certain substances. They are complex immunological processes that deserve a deeper explanation. The triggers for an allergic reaction are the so-called allergens. These can be very diverse – from seasonal pollen to everyday foods.
The reaction of your immune system to these allergens is the key to how allergies develop. In people with allergies, the immune system classifies what is actually a harmless substance as a threat. In response, your body produces antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin E (IgE), to fight the supposed invaders. The interaction of allergens and IgE antibodies leads to typical allergic symptoms such as:
• Itching
• Skin rash
• runny nose
• swollen eyes
• In severe cases even breathing problems
While this reaction normally serves to protect your body from harmful substances, in allergy sufferers it is hypersensitive and leads to excessive and sometimes even dangerous defensive reactions. Allergies are not malicious in nature. They are the result of a dysfunctional immune response to harmless substances.
How do allergies develop in children?
How do allergies develop in children and what important aspects need to be understood and taken into account? Genetic predisposition plays a key role here. If there is already an allergy in the family, there is an increased risk that a child will also develop an allergic reaction.
However, it should be emphasized that this does not directly mean that the child will necessarily develop the same allergy as a parent or sibling. The type of allergy can vary and children can be sensitive to different allergens. In addition to genetic predisposition, environmental factors play an important role.
Early and repeated exposure to possible allergens, such as dust mites, pollen or animal dander, can increase the risk. A child's immune system develops over time, which is why they are particularly sensitive in the first few years of life. The time of first exposure to allergens can also determine whether and how allergies develop. If a child comes into contact with possible allergens early on, the likelihood of an allergic reaction increases.
Therefore, it is important to control environmental factors and ensure that the child with a genetic predisposition to allergies is exposed to as few allergens as possible. The prevention and management of allergies in children requires consideration of genetics and the environment. Therefore, family members or caregivers should be aware that allergies may occur in a child and seek immediate medical attention if signs of allergic reactions occur.
How do allergies develop in adults?
It is possible for allergies to develop in adulthood, even if there were no signs of it in childhood. This form is called acquired allergy. With GenoLine's allergy test, you can quickly find out whether you really have an allergy or whether another culprit could be behind your symptoms.
How do acquired allergies develop?
The exact mechanisms of how acquired allergies arise are not yet fully understood. However, there are various theories that could explain how these allergies arise. One possible explanation is that the immune system undergoes changes over the course of life.
It may be more sensitive to specific allergens that have not previously caused a reaction. This could be due to genetic changes, environmental influences or hormonal changes in adulthood. Another factor that can cause allergies in adults is exposure to new allergens. You can be exposed to different allergens in your life, whether through changes in where you live, at work or through leisure activities.
Exposure to new allergens that you did not have contact with in childhood can be the key to an allergic reaction. It is important to emphasize that acquired allergies are generally not as common as developing allergies in childhood.
However, it is important for you to pay attention to potential allergy symptoms and consult a doctor if necessary. Diagnosing allergies in adults can be complex because they are often confused with other health problems. However, in order to maintain your quality of life, an accurate diagnosis and an individual treatment plan are crucial. It is also worth carrying out a DNA test from GenoLine.
